What action should be taken if an air compressor overheats?

When an air compressor overheats, the appropriate action to take is to shut down the compressor and allow it to cool. This response is crucial for several reasons.

First, operating an overheated compressor can lead to serious damage to the internal components, such as the motor and bearings, potentially causing complete failure. Continually running an overheated unit not only risks increasing the extent of the damage but can also compromise safety by increasing the risk of fires or explosions.

Allowing the compressor to cool down provides an opportunity to assess the situation more clearly, identifying the root cause of the overheating, which may include issues like lack of lubrication, excessive load, or obstructions in airflow. This methodical approach ensures that the problem can be effectively diagnosed and rectified without further risk of harm.

In contrast, increasing the pressure to reduce heat or charging the system with more oil can exacerbate the overheating issue rather than resolve it. Continuing to operate the compressor without addressing the overheating condition may lead to catastrophic failure and more extensive repairs.